Should I have my antique clock serviced?

Question

I recently took possession of an antique seth-thomas mantel clock that was originally a wedding present from my great-great grandparents to my great grandparents. It seems to be running perfectly - keeps good time and the chimes work well. Every site I've read mentions that clocks of this sort need to be cleaned every several years and lubricated every few years. I'm thinking about taking it in to a specialist to have these things done, but I'm hesitant to do so. As far as I know, it has never been cleaned or lubricated. Maybe in it's very early life it was, but my mother grew up in the house where it was running for more than 60 years and it was never serviced. Just wound every week.

I want to preserve this family heirloom, but am worried it's a case of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'.

elhigh · Accepted Answer

Well, in a case like this, you're damned if you do and damned if you don't.

It's true that you really should have a clock serviced every five to ten years.  It usually amounts to nothing more than a good cleaning and light oiling.  A trained horologist will be able to bring the right tools and a good working knowledge of the going train, striking train and escapement bits inside the case, and isn't too likely to go wiggling things he shouldn't.  He'll also have the right kind of oil; just squirting a bit of 30-weight isn't going to get it.

Over the past several decades microscopic bits of grit and dust have worked their way into the case and settled onto the movement, and possibly worn down a few of the bearings, worn down some of the gear teeth, and just in general had a small but deleterious effect on the clock's efficiency and ability to keep proper time.

I would go ahead and get it serviced.  There's every likelihood that your clock is fine and will continue to give many more years of good service, but I think a good once-over may point up some areas needing attention, areas that could be renewed to ensure better service for even longer.

Old clocks are cool.  I have a nice 50-year-old cuckoo clock hanging outside my office.  I found it in a thrift store, bought it for $10, fixed it up and there it is, giving its opinion of visitors.

Good luck with it.

lordreflexis · Answer

Yes, they need service If you want wait til it stops Your grandma will have a broken heart Take it to some one that does vintage clocks and is a certified horologist.  Horology is the study of watches and watch making

So Google certified vintage clock horologist  {your city} and start calling They will let you know costs when asked. I know these things because I collect watches and own over 150 pieces in my collection 
Below is a link to a Horologist, as a sample of what you are looking for.  You can arrange to send the clock
if you like what you see. I do some of my own repairs others I send to people I trust in my city.

Because hey I love time :}

Hope it helps
Lr

XTX · Answer

nice heirloom == as long as it keeps good time then wind and enjoy == if the clock has a problem then it is 'time' to get it fixed and cleaned ==

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Should I have my antique clock serviced?

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